President Signs Bill Extending Unemployment Benefits

President Obama signs H.R. 4691 Extension Act in his private office of the residence. White House Photo

Unemployment benefits continue for those without jobs after an impasse was reached late Tuesday that put an end to a holdup by a senator who wanted Democrats to stop financing the $10 billion bill by adding to the deficit.

Republican Senator Jim Bunning (KY) was holding up the measure for days and finally declared "enough" after hours of negotiations.  The bill was brought to the floor late Tuesday night for a vote which passed 78-19.  President Obama signed the bill shortly after in his private office of the residence.

This measure only extends unemployment benefits for a month giving Congress more time to work on a year long package.  It also funds Medicare payments to doctors and highway programs.